This week’s Bloggers Made of AWESOME is Taylor from Pink Heels, Pink Truck! Taylor is a She Reads member, does this great feature called Blogger Edmucation and is passionate about blogging! So, I had to ask her to be a part of the AWESOME feature!
#literaryconfessions
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Julie @ Girls Just Reading
It’s time for another edition of Bloggers Made of AWESOME! This time, it’s Julie from Girls Just Reading. Julie is a She Reads blogger, Days of Our Lives watcher (we used to spend way too much time tweeting back and forth and catching up with the plot lines) and avid lover of books. For that, and many other reasons- Julie is made of AWESOME.
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Julie @ Girls Just Reading
Julie- when did you begin blogging?
I began blogging in August 2007 and had no clue what I was doing. J
Girls Just Reading is a group of bloggers. How did ya’ll come up with the name? Do you know each other in real life or only through social media?
Girls Just Reading was the brain child of Lisa, our founder. She was initially going to do this solo but then asked Jenn and I to join her on this adventure. We’ve been up and blogging since August 2007 and have pretty much learned how to do this blogging thing on the fly. In 2010, Alice came along for the ride and we’ve been fast reading buddies ever since, even though none of us live in the same city!
We actually all met because of the tv show ALIAS. We were all big fans and met on a message board. We did a book club on there but when the show finished and no more message boards, we took it here.
What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?
Blogging is a hobby for me. I do it to share my love of books and reading. It is easy to get caught up in getting ARCs but for 2014 I’m going to be reading a lot of books that have languished on my shelves. I try not to keep up with the Jones when it comes to blogging. For me, we are obviously doing something right because we’ve been around for 6 years and still going strong.
As for other blogs, I tend to read those that I share common genres with for recommendations. I also love discovering new blogs via Twitter. It’s always fun to meet book lovers.
When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?
I have kids, so I’m running them somewhere or keeping them entertained. I do love to watch tv and I used to love movies but I find that these days I prefer books for my entertainment. I love to hang out with my friends and when a favorite band comes in to town I’m almost always there for a live show.
Do you have any #literaryconfessions?
I have tried to read several Jane Austen books and I just can’t do it. They bore me. I know, I know I’ll be ridiculed for it. I have no desire to read any of the books that are coming out about supporting characters of her novels either. Now, I will watch the movies based on her novels though.
Do you have a #literarycrush?
I don’t think I really have a literary crush. When I was reading the Stone Barrington series by Stuart Woods, I will admit to finding him sexy but there’s no character out there that instantly pops into my head.
What books are you looking forward to reading in 2014?
Answer: All of them. LOL Here are a couple that are on my radar:
Fallen Beauty by Erika Robuck (quickly becoming a go-to author for me)
The Wife, the Maid and the Mistress by Ariel Lawhon
I’m sure there are tons I don’t know about. I try not to look in advance because then I freak out. I’m also looking forward to taking on my huge pile(s) of books that I’ve bought but not read.
In your opinion, what book was the best book you read in 2013?
Book, 1 book?!! That’s like asking me if I have a favorite child. 😉
I’m going to say The Fault in Our Stars by John Green because I don’t read YA (seriously I don’t) and this book was just pure gold. It might have had a teen protagonist but the themes were very universal.
You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?
The Next Best Thing by Jennifer Weiner – I love her and it’s been sitting in my pile for too long
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn – LOVED Gone Girl and keep wanting to read this one
Perfectly Matched by Heather Webber – It’s the 4th in the Lucy Valentine series and I miss her.
Also, it would probably be more like 5 for me on a beach vacation. 🙂
Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?
I literally just used my e-reader for the first time a week ago. I liked it and I think it’ll be great for some galleys and chunksters, but I will always prefer tree books. My thought is though, as long as people are reading, does it matter the vehicle?
You are a member of She Reads- an organization that helps women find great books. What is the experience like- helping authors get the word out about books and connecting women with great books?
It’s wonderful to be part of an organization that is trying to get the word out on writers, period. There are so many debut authors that no one would hear of if not for word of mouth. We all know that they don’t get the same mainstream media time as others. I love the community as well. We all get pretty excited for the books and the authors are so open with us as well.
In your opinion, what do you think is more important- a good opening line or an ending that leaves you wanting to discuss the book with everyone?
All of it. 🙂 The opening line of a novel can set it up brilliantly but if the ending doesn’t live up to the opening line then it was all for naught.
If you could go on a literary road trip- where would you go?
I honestly don’t know. Seriously, you stumped me. 🙂
Did you enjoy learning a bit more about Julie? Wasn’t her reviews of THE WIFE, THE MAID and THE MISTRESS and FALLEN BEAUTY fab? If you need more Julie, check out her blog, Kids Just Reading, or follow her on Twitter.
Happy Reading and Bookishly Yours,
T @ Traveling With T
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Katie @ Doing Dewey
Katie @ Doing Dewey is a fellow She Reads blogger (which def makes her 50 shades of AWESOME), but even more AWESOME- she is so supportive- and her blog always has some great reviews!
I knew I liked Katie because we’re both She Reads peeps- but reading her 50 Bookish Things Bucket List just put the cherry on the sundae!
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Katie @ Doing Dewey
Katie- when did you begin blogging?
I started blogging in December 2011, during my first semester of grad school.
How did you come up with the name Doing Dewey?
I’d just gotten back into reading since my hiatus in under graduate and I’d discovered that I loved non-fiction a lot more than I remembered. I loved the idea of learning new things on a wide variety of topics and had just read in Gretchen Rubin’s The Happiness Project where she makes a goal of learning about new things, so I decided to try reading my way through the Dewey Decimal system. I started blogging to track my progress, so Doing Dewey seemed appropriate.
What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?
I certainly hope so 🙂 I know I get so many great recommendations from other book bloggers, I’m never short of new book to pick up. I do think most of my readers are book bloggers, but I suspect that bloggers also reach a lot of non-bloggers through review sites like amazon and goodreads.
When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?
I love photography and would really like to make more time for it than I have been lately. I also enjoying gaming with friends. Recent favorites include Guildwars 2, Payday 2, and Battlefield 4.
Do you have any #literaryconfessions?
I’m pretty sure I didn’t read any Austen until grad school and the gap in my reading experience I’m currently most embarrassed about is not having read anything by Neil Gaiman or Brandon Sanderson. Hopefully I’ll be fixing that soon though 🙂
Do you have a #literarycrush?
You know, the phenomenon of literary crushes is something I’ve never really understood. I’ve very rarely come across a guy I would date in a book (although I think William in Someone Else’s Love Story is probably an exception), but even the swoon-worthiest or most datable guys aren’t something I think about after I finish a book.
What books are you looking forward to reading in 2014?
Oh, all of them, really! I guess the ones I’m most excited about right now are Michio Kaku’s The Future of the Mind; Mortal Heart by Robin LaFevers; and The Forever Song by Julie Kagawa.
In your opinion, what are the 3 best books of 2013?
I actually have as easy top choice, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead. This is one of those books that I wanted to start handing out to people as soon as I finished it! I also loved The Time of My Life by Cecelia Ahern and The Book Thief, which was one of the only books that has managed to make love it despite making me cry.
You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?
Now that’s just crazy talk. On a beach vacation, I bring at least two non-fiction options, at least two fiction options, and probably a half dozen “light” books like chick lit or thrillers. Then I fill up any space I have leftover with more books. Haha, actually this could be one of my literary confessions – I always, always pack as many books as I have space for, just in case.
Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?
I will always prefer a tree book, but I’m getting a lot more comfortable reading ebooks. My least favorite thing about ebooks is the lack of finality when I finish one book and move onto another. It feels weird to still be holding the same physical object even though I’ve moved on to a new story!
You are a member of She Reads- an organization that helps women find great books. What is the experience like- helping authors get the word out about books and connecting women with great books?
I love it! For starters, the women such as yourself who pick the books we read must have impeccable taste, because I’ve given 5 stars to every book I’ve read for She Reads. And the author chats on twitter are one of my favorite blogging events. Both the bloggers and the authors have been completely fantastic to interact with.
Do you watch the movies before you read the book? Or vice versa?
The book, if at all possible. I generally expect the book to be better, so I don’t like to have it spoiled for me. Plus it makes me enjoy movies more when I can be excited to see a book I read brought to life.
How do you organize your TBR shelf? Stacks? Nicely organized?
I organize my books that I’ve read and decided I love enough to keep, but my TBR books are just in piles. Fortunately, I only have room for so many piles on my dresser, so my rule is that once that’s full, no more ARCs for me. This makes ebooks somewhat problematic in terms of keeping my TBR pile manageable.
What is a popular book that you were just not that into?
I was completely not impressed by Divergent. I don’t buy that the world would ever end up the way it is in the book and there was a lot of that annoying plot device where people refuse to explain something for no reason but to draw out the story. Especially after the mixed reaction to Allegiant, I don’t plan to continue the series.
If you could be best friends with an author- who would you pick? And why?
I would be best friends with Marianne Morea (http://www.mariannemorea.com/). I recently wrote a review that was mostly positive but included some constructive criticism of her independently published re-telling of the Sleepy Hollow legend, Hollow’s End. She was nice enough to comment on my review and asked me to e-mail her if I had any more specific suggestions. She has generally been a pleasure to communicate with and I’ve got to imagine that anyone who can take criticism so sweetly and try to learn from it has got to be a nice person.
Liked Katie @ Doing Dewey? Visit her blog, Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter pages.
Interview with Gigi Pandian, author of PIRATE VISHNU (plus signed bookplate promo!)
Photo Credit: Henery Press
Today, Gigi Pandian stopped by Traveling With T to talk about her latest book, PIRATE VISHNU, Jaya (her character’s) #literaryconfessions and Indiana Jones. Read on for all the details in this fun interview with Gigi. And don’t forget- after the interview, there is the info you will need to get a signed bookplate (Shut UP! I know, right?!)
Interview with Gigi Pandian, author of PIRATE VISHNU
Hi Gigi- Thanks for agreeing to be interviewed at Traveling With T!
Thanks for having me!
Can you describe Pirate Vishnu (A Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mystery) in 15 words or less?
A treasure map of San Francisco’s Barbary Coast leads to mystery and romance in India.
Why will readers connect to Jaya Jones? What sets her apart from other characters?
Jaya is a classic adventurer in the tradition of Elizabeth Peters’ strong-willed heroines, but she puts her own multicultural twist on the genre. She was born in India to an Indian mother and an American father, and grew up to be a professor of Indian history in San Francisco. She brings her experiences with her to her adventures, which helps her solve mysteries of the past linked to present-day crimes.
“Maneuvers a complicated love life she didn’t count on”- ooh, Jaya’s dealing with a love triangle! Do you, as the writer, know which part of the love triangle complements Jaya better? Or are you still deciding?
When I wrote Artifact, the first book in the series, I thought I had everything figured out. But my characters surprised me! They’ve taken on lives of their own and I’m not yet sure how they’re going to work things out. I can’t wait to find out.
RT Book Reviews says “Forget about Indiana Jones. Jaya Jones is swinging into action.” How does that make you feel? Indiana Jones is a pretty big pop culture icon- so being compared must be kind of cool!
It’s definitely exciting to see reviews comparing Jaya to Indiana Jones! When I was a kid, I created a cartoon strip called “Minnesota Smith” — the adventures of a female Indiana Jones. It’s surreal to have come full circle.
Is Jaya Jones based on anyone you know, Gigi?
I traveled with my anthropologist parents a lot when I was a kid, so I invented all sorts of mysterious treasure hunts as I played in castle ruins. When I began writing a novel I wanted to capture that spirit, so Jaya was initially based on me – but she grew into her own unique personality more than I was expecting!
What is the 1 thing that Jaya would never be without?
Jaya needs her high heels – she’s only 5 feet tall.
Does Jaya have any #literaryconfessions?
Jaya Jones #literaryconfessions
Jaya Jones has a pretty big literary confession: She tells people she doesn’t have time to read fiction, since she’s a second-year professor who doesn’t yet have tenure, but she secretly loves classic adventure novels. She doesn’t admit to herself that she loves the thrill of the treasure hunts she gets pulled into, but her favorite novels are Victorian escapist adventures like King Solomon’s Mines.
*Thanks Gigi for a great interview!
Photo Credit: Provided by Author
Gigi Pandian Bio:
Gigi Pandian is the child of cultural anthropologists from New Mexico and the southern tip of India. After being dragged around the world during her childhood, she tried to escape her fate when she left a PhD program for art school. But adventurous academic characters wouldn’t stay out of her head. Thus was born the Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mystery Series. The first book in the series, Artifact, was awarded a Malice Domestic Grant and named a “Best of 2012″ debut novel by Suspense Magazine. The follow-up is Pirate Vishnu. Gigi loves writing locked-room mystery short stories. Her latest, “The Hindi Houdini,” is an Agatha Award nominee for Best Short Story.
Connect with Gigi: Facebook, blog, Twitter and website.
Signed Bookplate Info:
Photo Credit: Provided by Author
Want a signed bookplate for your copy of PIRATE VISHNU? Order PIRATE VISHNU by February 17th and email proof of purchase to: bookplates@gigipandian.com (while supplies last). For more info, visit Gigi’s site for all the details on the signed bookplate.
Where to buy PIRATE VISHNU:
Amazon, Barnes and Noble, IndieBound, A Great Good Place for Books, & Murder By The Book.
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Shannon @ River City Reading
Shannon at River City Reading is a blogger I noticed as she was interacting with 2 bloggers who I totally respect and admire. Seeing Shannon interacting with them gave me a good feeling about her- and I have not been disappointed! Her blog is smart- it’s a blog I can sit and read for hours.
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Shannon at River City Reading
Shannon- when did you begin blogging?
February 2013, so I’m still just a baby blogger.
How did you come up with the name River City Reading?
I wanted to make a connection to Richmond, VA, the city I live in and love. Richmond calls itself the River City – so River City Reading was born!
What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?
Sometimes I wonder if my reviews are only reaching other bloggers or if they actually get to the more casual reader, but every once in a while there will be a great confirmation that I am helping to connect a reader with a book.
When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?
Working, reading and blogging definitely take up a big chunk of my time, but the rest of it goes to spending time with my husband and dog.
Do you have any #literaryconfessions?
I’m incredibly guilty of judging books by their covers. I’m very easily won over by pretty covers and can just as easily turn down a good book with a bad one.
Do you have a #literarycrush?
I don’t find myself crushing on characters, but every once in a while I’ll get a little swoony over an author!
What books are you looking forward to reading in 2014?
I’m really excited about The Last Days of California by Mary Miller, Careless People by Sarah Churchwell and The Quick by Lauren Owen.
In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read in 2013?
Definitely The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. I’m still thinking about those characters and feeling jealous of everyone else who gets to read the novel for the first time.
You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?
Cheryl Strayed’s Tiny Beautiful Things and two new books. I very rarely re-read, except for the books I’m constantly dipping in and out of like Strayed’s advice columns.
Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?
I love both equally! I usually have one book of each type going at the same time.
What has been your most liked (or shared) blog post? Why do you think it was so popular?
Book Blogging Survey Results We had so many people participate in the survey and it was just a topic that piqued so many interests.
If you could have dinner with any author (dead or alive) who would you pick? And why?
George R.R. Martin, because I totally want to pick his brain about EVERYTHING related to A Song of Ice and Fire. Did you think I would pick someone highbrow? I’m going for practicality. There are things I need to know.
Shannon, what genre is your favorite?
General contemporary fiction, but I have a soft spot for Southern fiction (specifically Southern Gothic)
As a blogger, what advice would you give to a new blogger or a person who wants to begin blogging?
I still feel too green to be giving much advice, but I would encourage everyone starting out with book blogging to jump right into the community as quickly as possible. Comment and participate without comparing yourself to others too much and you’ll realize how fun and supportive everyone can be.
Want to connect with Shannon? Visit her blog, Twitter, Goodreads, Facebook and follow her on Bloglovin!
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Lisa @ Books in the Burbs
Lisa and I are relatively new Twitter buddies. We started chatting some in 2013, talking about blogger things, why our Netgalley approval rating wasn’t at 80%, and more. Lisa is fun and charming- and her blog is cute as a button.
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Lisa @ Books in the Burbs
Lisa- when did you begin blogging?
I started blogging in December, 2010. It’s hard to believe that I have been blogging over 3 years!!
How did you come up with the name Books in the Burbs?
I wanted a name that reflected who I was and what the blog was about. Living in the suburbs means different things for people, but for me, as a woman-it means to me: married, busy mom, kids, driving kids to their activities, minivan, dogs, etc. So, I thought it was a good word to use. I love books, so I started playing with it, and it evolved into: Books in the Burbs.
What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?
In the 3 years that I’ve been blogging, I have noticed a huge change in the world of books!! Before, to read a review about a book, readers were limited to print reviews in magazines. However, with the internet, readers have turned to everyday people, who blog their opinions on books read. Bloggers don’t have to be politically correct or cautious about what they write, because their job isn’t at stake over a bad review. There is a high level of trust between bloggers and their readers, and the reading world is taking notice.
Bloggers have the opportunity to connect authors with readers, without having to travel anywhere. Authors and readers can connect via Twitter parties, FB chats, interviews, and guest spots. It’s a fantastic way for authors and readers to connect in ways that weren’t always possible before blogging.
When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?
I usually have non-reading time when my daughter is at school, so this gives me an opportunity to meet up with friends for lunch, shopping, and getting manicures/pedicures (which I love!). It’s also my time to connect with close friends and family, because I find that human connection is so important to me! I think my kids would agree, as they get snuggle attacks when they get home from school!
Do you have any #literaryconfessions?
What?!? You haven’t read Pride & Prejudice???? I LOVE that book!!! I’m a huge Jane Austen fan, so that’s a book that is a must read for everyone! LOL! My literary confession would be that I haven’t read any Harry Potter books, even though people rave about the books. I don’t have any desire or interest in them, so it’s not a series I have even considered reading.
Do you have a #literarycrush?
Mr. Darcy, of course! He’s the romantic character that charms Ms. Elizabeth Bennet in Pride & Prejudice. See…you have to read the book! 😉
What books are you looking forward to reading in 2014?
Oh, there are so many great books that are continuously being released. I love Sarah Jio’s writing and am looking forward to her book, Goodnight June. I’m also a huge fan of Julie Klassen and can’t wait to read: The Dancing Master. There are a few more, so I’m really excited about 2014!
In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read in 2013?
Oh, that is sooo hard!! Because of the different genres I read, it’s hard to just pick one. The first one that comes to mind is: The Husband’s Secret by Liane Moriarty. It’s not very often that I carry a book with me to the dinner table, but with that one, I just couldn’t put it down. Then, after I finished the book, I had to reread the last couple of chapters!! It was a storyline that stayed with me for days!
You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?
1. Definitely the Holy Bible-NLT version. I don’t know why, but I always carry it with me on vacation. Opening it up and reading verses just lets me know I’m not alone and His peace covers me.
2. Anything Jane Austen. She’s my go to author and I love reading her books when I’m in a reading slump.
3. Anything that I’m needing to write a book review for that month! LOL! I’ve got to keep my reading up, even when I’m on vacation! 😉
Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?
I’m definitely an e-book lover! I love the Nook Glowlight and Kindle Paperwhite because the backlight is not as harsh as the ipad. AND-the charge holds for a very long time. With the amount of reading I do, I have to charge about every 10-12 days. I do love paperbacks, but I find that when I’m reading them, more people will stop me to ask what I’m reading than when I’m reading an e-book. Because that’s a pet peeve of mine-to be interrupted while reading-I definitely like the privacy an e-reader provides. However, the biggest reason I love e-books is because I know I’m a book hoarder and having everything on an e-reader hides that secret!
You are a member of She Reads- an organization that helps women find great books. What is the experience like- helping authors get the word out about books and connecting women with great books?
I love being a member of She Reads. I was hugely honored to have been asked to join the team, and just feel like I’m a part of a really awesome woman’s club. Everyone is so friendly and helpful, and the books we get to read are a-m-a-z-i-n-g! I love how a book of the month will get so much publicity that the Twitter and Facebook feeds blow up with that particular book and author!! It’s a great opportunity for authors to garner a lot of exposure and for them to have reviews on so many fantastic blogs.
What is a book that you LOVED that did not get great reviews?
I had to look through my Goodreads book list to see how each book was rated overall. One that was quite dramatic of a rating: Between You & Me by Emma McLaughlin. I gave the book a 5 star rating, but the overall rating is a 2.87!! It’s a huge variation and I’m not sure why it didn’t get the positive recognition it deserves!
Do you have advice for book bloggers who are just starting their blogs?
1. Don’t hold back-create your blog!! Look at other blogs, read them, and from there-figure out your style. Otherwise, you will be overwhelmed if you wait and see and how you want to format your blog. It will change anyway, as you streamline your blog, so getting started is the hardest part!
2. Buy your domain name!! Nothing is more of a bummer than when you choose a blog name, only to see that someone else already has it.
3. Reach out to other bloggers and network with them. Book bloggers are so helpful, resourceful, and extremely supportive. We all love books and love sharing what we know. So, reach out and don’t be alone!
Want to connect with Lisa? Visit her blog, Facebook and Twitter!
**Editor’s note: Not reading Pride and Prejudice has been a previous #literaryconfession of mine from 2012. I did read it and enjoyed it!
Author Spotlight: Julie Kibler, author of Calling Me Home
Photo Credit: Author Provided
Yesterday, the interview with Julie Kibler posted. Today, it’s about the fun side of Julie- #literaryconfessions, #literarycrush, and more!
Author Spotlight: Julie Kibler
Julie- who are some of your favorite authors?
As a kid, my favorites were, of course, Laura Ingalls Wilder and Frances Hodgson Burnett. From young adulthood on, I always loved Maeve Binchy and Rosamund Pilcher. In recent years, I’ve been especially engrossed by books written by Chris Cleave, Chris Bohjalian, Elizabeth Berg, and too many others to name. I actually hate to name favorites, because tomorrow I’ll remember a different one and think, “OOPS.”
Do you have any #literaryconfessions?
Many more than I’ll ever admit. Maybe one is that I am a Bronte girl, much more than an Austen girl. I always enjoy movies made from novels by any of them, but I have never made it all the way through a Jane Austen novel! Ack!
Do you have a #literarycrush?
Recently I was painfully, heart wrenchingly in love with Will Traynor, right along with Louisa Clark in Jojo Moyes’ Me Before You. Longstanding crush? Probably Rochester from Jane Eyre. I always seem to fall for the complicated, difficult heroes.
What books have you been looking forward to reading in 2014?
I have a stack of books calling my name, but a few from friends I’m especially looking forward to. Ellen Marie Wiseman’s What She Left Behind is burning up the charts since it released a few weeks ago and I can’t wait to get started. Lydia Netzer’s second novel, How to Tell Toledo from the Night Sky, will be out this summer. I loved Shine Shine Shine! I want to read other books by Rainbow Rowell (I LOVED her YA novel Eleanor & Park in 2013). I could go on and on.
What was 1 book in 2013 that everyone was buzzing about- but you have not read?
Probably Elizabeth Gilbert’s Signature of All Things. I would like to read it, but haven’t yet.
If you could be best friends with a character from a book- who would it be? And why?
This sounds morbid, but if I’m ever diagnosed with a terminal illness, I hope I’m surrounded by friends such as the characters in Elizabeth Berg’s Talk Before Sleep. Berg has a way of writing characters that just seem to “get” life — and me! I read the things they think and say and nod and smile and say, “Yes.”
*Thanks to Julie for sharing her #literarycrush and #literaryconfessions- among other things! Connect with Julie via Facebook or website!
Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Krysta @ Pages Unbound
The last Bloggiesta that I participated in- I worked my butt off on my blog. Creating new things. Cleaning the blog up. NETWORKING. This is when me and Pages Unbound crossed paths! Pages Unbound is run by 2 people (Krysta and Briana) and they love to blog (plus read!) This AWESOME post is from the perspective of Krysta as Briana had been getting the opportunity for other interviews- and they want the blogging world to know them as a unit- but also as their own personalities! I was happy to oblige and give Krysta some bloggy love! Psst.. Just in case you missed it- HERE is an interview Pages Unbound did on little ole me!
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Krysta @ Pages Unbound
Krysta- when did you begin blogging?
Briana and I began our blog in May 2011, so I’ve been blogging for about two and a half years now!
How did you and Briana come up with the name Pages Unbound?
We threw around quite a lot of names, but Pages Unbound seemed to capture the spirit of really taking apart a book to look at how and why it works. I also think it reflects the magic of books—how they sometimes seem to come alive in a way you might not expect.
What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?
Blogging is a really exciting experience because it exposes you to a world I think many avid readers still do not know exists. It can be fun getting ARCs from publishers and things like that, but the real draw for me are the connections I can make both with authors and with other readers. I’ve read many books I might never have heard of if it were not for the blogging community. If I tend to agree with a blogger about what constitutes good literature and what books I think are good, I am definitely more willing to try a title I’ve seen reviewed on that blog, even if it is not a genre I typically read.
When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?
I like to watch movies, bake, and try to teach myself foreign languages. I think if I got lost in Italy at the moment, I could ask for the train station and maybe buy a newspaper. That’s totally useful, right?
Do you have any #literaryconfessions?
I’ve never read The Iliad or The Odyssey. And I’m completely ashamed of myself.
Do you have a #literarycrush?
I don’t really have a literary crush. When I see a really great character, I want him to get together with his destined literary crush!
What books are you looking forward to reading in 2014?
All of them! I am trying to get through my complete Shakespeare, however, so that’s my number one goal for 2014!
What is a book (or 2!) that you’ve read and LOVED- but did not get positive reviews?
I can’t think of any book in particular, but I do have a fondness for novels that oftentimes have a bit of a sentimental element to them—A Girl of the Limberlost by Gene Stratton-Porter, for example. Though that’s a classic and well-beloved by many.
In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read in 2013?
No contest—Dante’s Divine Comedy. But John Freccero’s commentary Dante: The Poetics of Conversion was a close second. The two just go together.
You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?
J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, Chaim Potok’s My Name is Asher Lev, and something light and fun. Maybe a Jessica Day George book or a fairy tale retelling.
Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?
I love paper books! The weight, smell, and texture of the book are all a special part of its bookishness.
How do you find other blogs to read? Recommendations of other bloggers?
I mostly find blogs when people come to comment on our blog. As for recommendations, there are so many great bloggers out there. I really like Simoa’s blog at http://animatedholiday.blogspot.com/, though. She talks about Pixar films, classic movies, and the always wonderful Audrey Hepburn.
Pages Unbound has a feature IF YOU LIKE. What is your favorite thing about this feature?
I like that it is the perfect feature for me! Whenever I read a good book, I want to know where I can find more books like it. Unfortunately, the recommendations generated by algorithms on various websites are often not close to what I want. You sometimes need the human element to discern what books have the same feel and spirit and that’s what we provide.
What is a book that you’ve wanted to read, but just haven’t found the time?
For years I’ve wanted to read Shelby Foote’s classic Civil War trilogy, but each book is about 800 pages and I never made it past the first few battles. But this upcoming year will be the year! (That’s what I’m telling myself, anyway.)
Want to connect with Pages Unbound? Visit blog, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest!
Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Ashley @ Closed The Cover
I heard about Closed The Cover from a fellow blogger that I sing the praises of regularly (Hi Rebecca @ Love At First Book!) and after emailing Ashley- I fell in love with her straight-forward, no-nosense ways. I’ve participated in SEVERAL tours with different tour groups and fellow bloggers- and while I wouldn’t say I have a favorite- I do like when a blog tour coordinator makes you feel welcome and appreciated- which Ashley does in SPADES. She tweets and uses Facebook to support her tours- not only for the authors, but for the bloggers that are participating. Ashley is BIG PICTURE person- she doesn’t just think about next week- she’s got plans for next year!
Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Ashley @ Closed The Cover
Ashley- when did you begin blogging?
When did I begin book blogging or when I did I begin blogging? I began blogging in general in 2007 on a general WordPress blog about anything and everything. Eventually I realized my poor beloved husband was becoming bored to tears with my constant chatter about books and I decided to create a book blog. Now I talk a little and blog a lot about books! I started book blogging in 2010 but didn’t begin blogging as Closed the Cover until the end of 2011.
How did you come up with the name Closed The Cover?
It was tough. I wanted a blog name that associated with books but I wanted to avoid a lot of the commonly used words and phrases. A quick Google search told me there were a lot of book blogs using the words “bookworm, book, novel” and the term “avid reader” so I wanted something different. One night my husband said to me, “Have you ever realized that when you finish a book you don’t close the cover, you slam it?” I opened the book back up and gently closed it then said, “There. I “closed” the cover.” The light bulb went off and my blog name was born! It also seems fitting to me since I do talk about books after I’ve “closed the cover.”
What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?
I definitely thing blogs help readers connect with good books. It’s funny because I follow a few bloggers that I never agree with on books. I actually watch their blog for books they criticize and then I pick those books up because I know I’ll love them. Different people love different things, you know? There’s actually a blogger I follow who I seem to always agree with on books. I’ve picked up books I would have never looked twice at after reading that he liked it.
When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?
Surprise! I’m also a martial artist. 🙂 I’ve earned up to my 2nd degree brown belt in Okinawan Kenpo Karate and I’m a trained staff fighter. I fight with a 5” burned bamboo bo staff. I’ve been doing it now for about 11 years. No one would ever think it of me when they meet me or talk to me but other than reading it’s probably my greatest love (not including my husband or puppies of course).
Do you have any #literaryconfessions?
Great Expectations is the only Charles Dickens novel I have ever read. Isn’t that shameful? I’ve never read any of his other works even though I know the stories. I can even quote lines from the books because they are so well-known but I’ve never actually sat and read them myself. Great Expectations is also one of my favorite novels which makes it even more surprising that I never pursued other Dickens’ novels.
Do you have a #literarycrush?
Actually, I don’t. I read so much history, historical fiction, memoirs, autobiographies and biographies that it’s hard for me to develop and literary crushes. I read a lot of WWII fiction and they discuss Nazi’s and German politicians. I just finished two books about the JFK assassination. I just read a lot of book that don’t really lend themselves to literary crushes or book boyfriends.
What books are you looking forward to reading in 2014?
ALL the books! I actually read a lot of indie authors and I have the tendency to just grab books on a whim. I never really know what is coming out when or what the next big anticipated release is so it’s hard for me to get excited about future books. Sometimes I discover a new book, love it, rave about it, then find it was published in 2010. It’s just how I read. I know I have a lot of books on my to-read list that I will get to in 2014 but the pile is about 3 dozen books deep and I’m too lazy right now to look through it. 🙂
What is a book (or 2!) that you’ve read and LOVED- but did not get positive reviews?
Hmm…I don’t know. It usually goes the other way for me. I usually find myself disappointed in a book but then look to find it has GREAT reviews from other people. I find myself feeling like, “What am I missing??” It happened to me with An American Bride in Kabul, Rise of the Governor and In the Company of Secrets.
In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?
Ahhh! How can you choose?!!! ONE book? That’s mean. I can tell you a book I read and really loved was The Iranian Scorpion by William Peace. It’s a terrorism thriller and it seems that almost no one has heard of it. It’s really good. I also loved Of Blood and Brothers: Book One by E. Michael Helms. It’s a Civil War fiction and I love war fiction! On another note, I just finished I Am Malala about the girl who was shot by the Taliban in Pakistan for standing up for the right for girls’ education. It’s a pretty great book too.
You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?
Well, I live near the beach so this is kind of a regular weekend for me. I like to read light-hearted books on the beach – ones that aren’t going to be heavy or complicated. If I could choose three right now I would take A Spear of Summer Grass by Deanna Raybourn which I loved and two books from my to-read list: Beyond Belief: Finding the Strength to Come Back (it’s about the baseball player Josh Hamilton) and Beyond the Western Sun by Kristina Circelli.
Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?
It doesn’t matter. I don’t take my iPad to the beach so I prefer tree books for outdoor reading and eBooks for indoor reading. I donate a lot of the paperback books I receive through Closed the Cover to the Friends of the Library program here locally which supplies youth programs, prison books, women’s shelters and homes for the elderly. Since I can’t donate eBooks I require a $5 donation to the literacy Room to Read for any eBook submissions to Closed the Cover. As far as my reading goes, I can read either one and enjoy it. I have no preference.
How do you find other blogs to read? Recommendations of other bloggers?
I meet a lot of other bloggers on Twitter. I also will Google for reviews of books I’ve enjoyed and then follow the blogs I find that also enjoyed that book.
Closed The Cover organizes blog tours for authors. Do you have tips or recommendations for other bloggers who might be interested in one day being a blog tour organizer?
It’s a lot of fun but it’s a lot of hard work if you want to do it right. For one, it’s important to remember that the tour is about the author and the book not about you as the blogger or organizer. I hate when I see tour posts that emphasize the blogger who organized it more than the book itself. I’ll see banners and buttons for the organizer but only a small book cover for the book itself. I find that frustrating. I put special emphasis on making sure that the book and the author take priority. I also never restrict the number of stops on a tour. The goal is to get the most exposure possible. All I could tell someone who wanted to organize tours is this: Be organized. Be honest. Be fair. Remember – this is about promoting books not about promoting yourself.
What is a book that you’ve wanted to read, but just haven’t found the time?
I’ve wanted to read the entire Dexter series by Jeff Lindsay. There are about 7 books in the series which is a big time commitment. I’ve read the first one but I haven’t had time to read the others yet.
Want to connect with Ashley @ Closed The Cover? Visit her website, Twitter and Facebook.
Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Samantha March @ Chick Lit Plus
Several weeks ago, I began participating in blog tours for Chick Lit Plus- thanks to a fellow blogger passing some information on to me. At the time I did not realize that Samantha of Chick Lit Plus was the same Samantha that I knew from She Reads (but she is!) Participating in Samantha’s tours is easy and wonderful for bloggers who want to do more social blogging like tours!
Samantha @ Chick Lit Plus: Bloggers Made of AWESOME
Samantha- when did you begin blogging?
I started Chick Lit Plus in 2009.
How did you come up with the name Chick Lit Plus?
I wanted a name that showed my love of chick lit, but I also wanted to include more genres than just chick lit, and I wanted to be more than just a book blog. CLP also features celebrity news, beauty reviews, and health and fitness articles.
What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?
I think blogging is just about the coolest thing ever. Not only are blogs helping connect readers to books and authors, but blogging gives bloggers a community, helps them interact with people who love books and reading just as much as they do. It is so thrilling to have chats online or via email with someone you’ve never met, but it doesn’t feel that way because you have so much in common. I think that’s really special.
When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?
I am a published author and an independent book publisher. My company is Marching Ink, and I also run CLP Blog Tours. I do also have a “real” job, and I worked for my local VA Hospital helping veterans get enrolled into the system. Coming from a military family the job means a lot to me.
Do you have any #literaryconfessions?
This is so embarrassing, but I’ve never read The Great Gatsby! And I’m the biggest fan of that era, so it makes zero sense! Nor have I watched the movie…going to hide in a corner now!
Do you have a #literarycrush?
I’m sure this is a different answer, but I honestly don’t crush on a whole lot of literary characters. Or actors. Or musicians. I’m strange. Talk athletes and we have a different story 😉 But honestly, my literary crushes are the authors themselves. Ann M. Martin of The Baby-Sitter’s Club sparked my interest in reading and writing and creating stories, Francine Pascal continued that with Sweet Valley High, and Emily Giffin’s novels inspired me to start my blog and get serious about writing.
What books are you looking forward to reading in 2014?
Emily Giffin has a new one out in May I believe, that I’ll be looking forward to!
In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?
Eek so many! I loved Zoey & The Moment of Zen by Cat Lavoie, but another one that really got me going was The Girl You Left Behind by JoJo Moyes.
You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?
How did you know? My honeymoon will be here in 3 months 🙂 Honestly, this answer is so boring, but I’ll be bringing whatever is on my review docket! But if I could pick and choose, I would like to bring a romance novel, a chick lit, and a mystery – a good range!
Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?
I enjoy both, but reading on my Kindle is a lot more convenient. It’s easier to travel with, but I’ll never get tired of cracking open a “real” book!
How do you find other blogs to read? Recommendations of other bloggers?
I find a lot of blogs online, or from CLP Blog Tours. And I think it’s great to support, share, and comment as much as you can!
Chick Lit Plus organizes blog tours for authors. Do you have tips or recommendations for other bloggers who might be interested in one day being a blog tour organizer?
It’s a lot harder than it sounds. It’s a full-time job that doesn’t pay like it, and you can lose your patience about twenty times a day. It’s not just finding blogs, it’s communication and organization, and willing to put in the work each day to truly help authors market their books. But if it’s something you truly love doing, it won’t feel like work.
What is a book that you’ve wanted to read, but just haven’t found the time?
The Great Gatsby!
Samantha March is an author, editor, publisher, blogger, and all around book lover. She runs the popular book/women’s lifestyle blog ChickLitPlus, which keeps her bookshelf stocked with the latest reads and up to date on all things health, fitness, fashion, and celebrity related. In 2011 she launched her independent publishing company Marching Ink and has two published novels – Destined to Fail and The Green Ticket. When she isn’t reading, writing, or blogging, you can find her cheering for the Green Bay Packers.
Want to connect with Samantha? Visit her website, Goodreads, Twitter, Facebook, CLP Twitter, and Chick Lit Plus.
Traveling With T 